The Nissan Frontier III Crew Cab, specifically the facelifted 2024 model equipped with the 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive, represents Nissan’s mid-size pickup truck offering in the North American market. Introduced in August 2024, this variant builds upon the redesigned Frontier III platform (introduced for the 2022 model year) with updated styling and refinements. It occupies a central position within the Frontier lineup, offering a balance of capability, comfort, and technology aimed at both recreational users and those requiring a versatile work truck. The 2024 facelift primarily focused on aesthetic updates and minor feature enhancements, leaving the core mechanical components largely unchanged from the preceding years.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Frontier |
| Generation | Frontier III Crew Cab (facelift 2024) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.8 V6 (310 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | August, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | LEV3-ULEV70 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.8 kg/Hp, 147.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 181 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 310 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 81.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 381 Nm @ 4400 rpm (281.01 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6600 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | VQ38DD |
| Engine displacement | 3799 cm3 (231.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.4 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, CVVTCS |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12 l (12.68 US qt | 10.56 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2105-2187 kg (4640.73 – 4821.51 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2727 kg (6012.01 lbs.) |
| Max load | 540-622 kg (1190.5 – 1371.28 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1136 l (40.12 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3143 kg (6929.13 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 314 kg (692.25 lbs.) |
| Length | 5338 mm (210.16 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2135 mm (84.06 in.) |
| Height | 1829-1839 mm (72.01 – 72.4 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3200 mm (125.98 in.) |
| Front track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 218-226 mm (8.58 – 8.9 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.9 m (42.32 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 30.6-31.5° |
| Departure angle | 21.9-22.4° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 20-20.6° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels permanently, and the front wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 297×28 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 287×18 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/70 R16; 265/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16; 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Frontier variant is Nissan’s VQ38DD 3.8-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine. This engine, a member of Nissan’s well-regarded VQ family, utilizes direct fuel injection and a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVVTCS) for optimized performance and efficiency. The engine produces 310 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 381 Nm (281 lb-ft) of torque at 4400 rpm. The engine is longitudinally mounted within the chassis. The 9-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, provides smooth and responsive shifting. This transmission is a significant upgrade from the older 5-speed automatic previously offered, contributing to improved fuel economy and overall drivability. The transmission features a wide gear ratio spread, allowing for both strong acceleration and relaxed highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.8L V6 and 9-speed automatic combination delivers a noticeable improvement in performance compared to earlier Frontier models. While not a sports truck, the powertrain provides ample power for everyday driving, towing, and off-road excursions. The 9-speed transmission keeps the engine in its optimal power band, resulting in quicker acceleration and more confident passing maneuvers. The automatic transmission is well-tuned for both on-road and off-road conditions, offering smooth shifts and responsive downshifts when needed. Compared to a manual transmission equipped Frontier, the automatic prioritizes ease of use and convenience, making it a more appealing option for drivers who prefer a less engaging driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2024 Frontier Crew Cab 3.8L 4×4 Automatic is typically offered in several trim levels, including S, SV, and PRO-4X. The base S trim includes standard features such as a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Nissan Safety Shield 360 (a suite of driver-assistance technologies), and a comfortable interior with cloth upholstery. The SV trim adds features like heated front seats, a power driver’s seat, and upgraded interior trim. The PRO-4X trim is the most off-road focused, featuring a locking rear differential, Bilstein shock absorbers, and all-terrain tires. Optional extras across the range include a premium audio system, leather upholstery, and a sunroof.
Chassis & Braking
The Frontier III utilizes a fully boxed frame, contributing to its robust construction and towing capacity. The front suspension consists of a double wishbone setup with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employs a rigid axle with leaf springs and a transverse stabilizer bar. This configuration provides a good balance of ride comfort and load-carrying capability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) standard. The braking system is adequately sized for the truck’s weight and performance, providing confident stopping power in various conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2024 Nissan Frontier received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its updated styling, improved powertrain, and comfortable interior. The 3.8L V6 and 9-speed automatic combination was particularly well-received for its smooth operation and ample power. Fuel economy, however, is a common criticism, with the Frontier’s combined fuel consumption of 19 mpg being slightly lower than some of its competitors, such as the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger. In terms of reliability, the VQ38DD engine has a generally good reputation, but long-term data on the 9-speed automatic transmission is still emerging.
Legacy
The Nissan Frontier III, and specifically the 3.8L V6/9-speed automatic configuration, represents a significant step forward for Nissan’s mid-size pickup truck. While the Frontier has historically been a more affordable option compared to the Tacoma, the latest generation has closed the gap in terms of refinement and capability. The VQ38DD engine is expected to remain a reliable and durable powertrain for years to come, and the 9-speed automatic transmission should provide smooth and efficient operation with proper maintenance. As the Frontier ages, it is likely to become a popular choice in the used car market, offering a compelling combination of value, capability, and reliability.
